Maine Officials: Mechanical Problem Caused Railroad Fires

SACO, Maine — Maine forest rangers say a series of May railroad fires started because sparks emanated from a Pan Am freight train due to a mechanical problem.

At least 47 separate fires broke out along railroad tracks in Scarborough, Old Orchard Beach, Saco, and Biddeford on May 8. State officials say no charges are pending and a two-month investigation found no violations of state laws.

State officials say damage estimates are still being totaled by victims and insurance companies but will likely be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Officials say the fires damaged or destroyed several properties. The Wagon Wheel Campground in Old Orchard Beach saw 10 camper trailers destroyed and was the hardest hit area.